VolunTEENs will be expected to attend one orientation & training session before June 7, 2024. Prior to this orientation, VolunTEENs will receive a link to a short training video, which must be watched before attending orientation.
VolunTEENs must work at least one shift each week and will be expected to commit to the entire 11-week program; however, exceptions can be made (for example: a week off for camp or vacation) if disclosed during the application process. Teens, let us know if you can’t make a shift as early as possible. We expect you to communicate and advocate professionally for yourselves. VolunTEENs may be dismissed from the program if they miss shifts, attempt last-minute changes, or otherwise do not adhere to the program expectations.
- Our VolunTEENs need to be cheerful, friendly, and patient every time they interact with a child. Always wear a smile! The kids participating in this program are excited to receive their beads and raffle tickets, and they are proud of the hard work they have done.
- We will be contacting you through email regarding substitution opportunities, program updates, or other pertinent information. You are responsible for checking your email. We will be communicating with you, not your parents/guardians.
- All VolunTEENs must be well-groomed and dressed appropriately. Remember, you are working with children and families. (Also, the children's room tends to get cold in the summer. We suggest layers to put on or remove accordingly!).
- Keep your language and conversations child-friendly at all times, whether you are speaking to a family, library staff, or your own peers.
- Visits from family & friends are discouraged to keep chatting and socialization to a minimum during your volunteer hours.
- Plan to eat a meal before or after your shift. You will not be given a lunch/dinner break during your volunteer shift.
- Phones are not allowed during volunteer hours (you may have them on your person but they may not be used at the library).
- You will be using a Chromebook for volunteer purposes only; music/headphones, web browsing, and video games are not allowed.
If there is downtime during a shift, you may be asked to assist with craft or program prep (count, cut, sort, etc.). You will not be handling library materials (e.g. shelving books). You may come prepared with a book or magazine to read!
VolunTEENs are expected to sign in and out for their shifts as directed during their orientation period. At the end of the summer, each teen will receive one copy of a form letter confirming their service hours performed. A record of those hours will be kept on file for reference for four years.
Students needing an additional written record of volunteer hours can request a copy by emailing teens@amesfreelibrary.org with at least one week’s notice. Library staff cannot provide work or character references.